If you’re searching for a luscious, creamy dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshingly fruity, then the Millionaire Peach Salad is your new best friend. This dessert perfectly marries the juicy sweetness of peaches with a dreamy pudding base, fluffy marshmallows, and a rich mix of textures from coconut and pecans. It’s one of those dishes that instantly brings a smile to the room, making it an absolute showstopper for family gatherings, celebrations, or just treating yourself to something special. Trust me, once you make this salad, it’ll feel like you’ve hit dessert gold every single time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Millionaire Peach Salad lies in its simple yet thoughtfully balanced ingredients. Each one brings a vital layer of flavor, texture, or color that transforms this dish into a decadent masterpiece you’ll crave again and again.

1 can (15 oz) sliced peaches, drained and chopped: Fresh, juicy peaches are the heart of this salad, providing that classic sweet and slightly tart peach flavor.
1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained: Adds a tropical zing and a burst of juicy goodness contrasting the other fruits.
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix: Creates the creamy, velvety base that binds all the ingredients in dreamy harmony.
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip or similar): Lightens the pudding and adds fluffy richness without weighing down the salad.
1 cup mini marshmallows: These little clouds contribute softness and a touch of whimsy.
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut: Offers a subtle chewiness and sweet fragrance that lifts the entire salad.
1 cup chopped pecans: Introduces a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the creamy and fruity elements.
½ cup sour cream: Adds a gentle tang and silky texture, balancing the sweetness with just a hint of richness.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, familiar notes that bring everything together.

How to Make Millionaire Peach Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Start by draining the can of sliced peaches to remove excess syrup, then chop them into bite-sized pieces that are perfect for spoonfuls. Also, drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent the salad from becoming watery. Prepping the fruit properly ensures a fresh texture and keeps the flavors vibrant.

Step 2: Mix the Pudding

In a large bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix with the whipped topping. Stir this mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. This step creates the luscious base that will hold the salad together and give it that signature velvety feel.

Step 3: Add the Sour Cream

Gently fold the sour cream into your pudding and whipped topping blend. This addition is a secret hero—it adds a slight tang and richness that balances the sweetness beautifully, making each bite more complex and satisfying.

Step 4: Mix in the Fruits and Add-Ins

Carefully fold in the chopped peaches, drained crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Mixing things gently keeps the fruit intact and evenly distributes all the delightful textures and flavors so every portion is a perfect bite.

Step 5: Flavor and Chill

Stir in the vanilla extract for a warm finishing touch. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate your Millionaire Peach Salad for at least two hours, allowing all the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up slightly. For best results, chilling it overnight makes the texture even dreamier.

How to Serve Millionaire Peach Salad

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation, sprinkle extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of shredded coconut on top before serving. These garnishes add visual appeal and a fresh crunch that perfectly complements the creamy base.

Side Dishes

Millionaire Peach Salad pairs wonderfully as a dessert following a light meal. Think grilled chicken, baked fish, or a crisp green salad to balance out the richness with savory, refreshing notes. It also shines bright at potlucks or holiday dinners, standing out among heavier dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this salad in elegant glass bowls or individual parfait glasses to highlight its beautiful colors and textures. Layering it with fresh peach slices on top or adding a mint leaf for a pop of green can turn this dessert into something truly festive and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Millionaire Peach Salad will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy that delightful creamy goodness a little longer.

Freezing

This dessert is best enjoyed fresh and chilled. Because of the whipped topping and marshmallows, freezing is not recommended as the texture will change and may become icy or grainy once thawed.

Reheating

No need to reheat! This salad is meant to be served cold and creamy. Just take it out of the fridge a few minutes before serving so it’s not too chilled and you can savor those lovely flavors fully.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?

Absolutely! When peaches are in season, fresh peaches bring a vibrant flavor and juicy texture that can make your Millionaire Peach Salad even more delightful. Just be sure to peel, pit, and chop them into bite-sized pieces before mixing.

Is there a way to make this dessert healthier?

Yes! Swap the instant vanilla pudding for a sugar-free version and use a light whipped topping to reduce calories and sugar. You can also consider leaving out the marshmallows or substitute them with fresh fruit for added nutrition.

Can I make this dessert nut-free?

Definitely. Simply omit the pecans or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds if you want to keep some crunch. The salad will still be creamy and delicious without nuts.

How long can I keep this salad before serving?

For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate for at least two hours, but ideally overnight. You can prepare it a day ahead to let those beautiful flavors meld together perfectly.

What makes this salad “millionaire” worthy?

It’s the combination of creamy pudding, fluffy whipped topping, juicy fruits, marshmallows, and crunchy pecans that adds richness, texture, and a luxurious mouthfeel, elevating this simple fruit salad into a truly decadent dessert experience.

Final Thoughts

Millionaire Peach Salad is one of those magical recipes that feels like a hug in dessert form—comforting, sweet, and utterly indulgent. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or looking to add some easy elegance to your dessert lineup, this salad will not disappoint. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and watch it become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. I promise, it’s a dessert worth every spoonful!

Millionaire Peach Salad

Print Recipe

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4.3 from 33 reviews

Millionaire Peach Salad is a luscious, creamy dessert that perfectly combines the sweetness of juicy peaches with the richness of vanilla pudding and a variety of delightful add-ins including marshmallows, coconut, and pecans. This indulgent salad is easy to prepare and makes an ideal treat for special occasions, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving a decadent yet refreshing dessert.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the Fruit: Open the can of peaches, drain the syrup thoroughly, and chop the peach slices into bite-sized pieces. Also, drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess liquid in the salad.
Mix the Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix with the whipped topping. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Add the Sour Cream: Gently fold the sour cream into the pudding and whipped topping mixture until evenly incorporated, adding a tangy richness to the salad.
Mix in the Fruits and Add-Ins: Carefully fold in the chopped peaches, drained pineapple, mini marshmallows, sweetened shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Flavor and Chill: Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up before serving.

Notes

Ensure all fruit is well-drained to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
For a firmer texture, chill the salad overnight.
Substitute fresh peaches for canned peaches when in season for a fresher taste.
For a healthier version, use sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping.
To make a nut-free salad, omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds or additional marshmallows.